HYMN STORIES: The Songs We Sing
“Faith of Our Fathers”
This Sunday we will lift our voices singing Faith of Our Fathers. The American heroes who went before us had great faith in Almighty God. This Sunday, and everyday, let us be reminded that many of them paid personal prices as they preserved their Christian heritage and traditions. Keep in mind, also, that the foundational stronghold to which our forefathers would cling was founded in the Bible, and it was to them as dear as life itself. The faith of our fathers, referred to in this hymn, is their trust in a loving, heavenly father. They had learned about him in the scriptures - lessons that presently guide our feet each day and which make it easier to fall asleep at night.
Many of the great Americans, who were fathers of our nation, stood for what is right and holy in this country. Among them are George Washington, who said, "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible." John Hancock informed us that, "We recognize no sovereign but God, and no king but Jesus!" Then there was Frances Scott Key, the composer of our national anthem, who assured us that, "The patriot who feels himself in the service of God, and who acknowledges him in all his ways, has the promise of almighty direction..." Abraham Lincoln reminded us that, "My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side. For God is always right."
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." -Psalm 33:12
Writing hymns was the life's work and mission of Fredrick W. Faber. He wrote songs that he thought would be helpful to his fellow Christians. He wrote approximately 150 such hymns before his death. As we pass through these days of remembering our fathers - those who have gone on before us - and the price that many of them paid for our freedom, may we remember that although it is sometimes difficult to do right and to stand for truth and justice, the faith that our father’s had is being carried on by us who live and serve the Living God. Happy Father’s Day!
Shared by Lindrew Johnson, Director of Worship
